The Boston Globe got word on Wednesday that the “Sherlock’’ actor would be taking over the role of Billy Bulger, formerly slated to be played by Australian actor Guy Pearce, in the upcoming film “Black Mass.’’

Cumberbatch, 37, will play the Billy Bulger, brother of Johnny Depp’s character, Whitey Bulger, and will take direction from Scott Cooper.

The “Black Mass’’ takeover started in April when the film held a casting call for extras in Dorchester. Since then, Depp and who we believe to be his stand-in have been photographed filming scenes in the Greater Boston area.